Consumers Guide to Collision Repair

What to Do After an Auto Collision in Canada

The Consumers Guide to Collision Repair is a Canadian consumer education resource intended to provide general information about what typically happens after a vehicle collision — from the initial next steps to understanding the collision repair process and returning a vehicle to service.

This guide is designed to help consumers better understand common practices within the collision repair industry and the types of decisions that may arise following an accident. It is not legal, insurance, or medical advice, and it does not replace guidance provided by insurance professionals, regulators, or government agencies. Consumers should always refer to their insurance policy, provincial regulations, and licensed professionals for advice specific to their situation.

Content reflects general practices in Canada and is provided for informational purposes only. Insurance requirements, reporting obligations, repair procedures, and available options may vary by province, insurer, vehicle type, and the circumstances of a loss.

How This Guide Can Help

• What to Do After an Accident
  General information outlining common steps and considerations following a collision.

• Understanding the Repair Process
  Plain-language explanations of estimates, repair plans, parts selection, calibration, and modern vehicle technology.

• Making Informed Repair Decisions
  Educational guidance to help consumers understand repair facility selection, rental vehicle considerations, and post-repair review.

Practical Tools to Help You Stay Organized

The guide includes a general 10-step overview and optional forms and checklists designed to help consumers organize information and understand common stages of the post-collision process. These tools are intended to support awareness and preparation only and may not reflect the specific requirements of every situation, insurer, or province.

Consumers are encouraged to use these resources as reference tools and to confirm any requirements directly with their insurer, repair facility, or relevant authorities.

• 10-Step Overview: A high-level outline of common stages following a collision can be accessed her: 10 steps 

• Forms & Checklists: Optional tools to help document information, questions, and next steps